Martin Holliday: Crafting luxury in Lincolnshire

A quarter of a century ago, Martin Holliday took a leap of faith by launching a bespoke cabinet-making business in Lincolnshire at a time of economic recession. Today, Chiselwood has awards galore under its belt and its high-end reputation is recognised well beyond the county’s borders and even abroad, but Martin remains committed to flying the flag for fine Lincolnshire craftsmanship.

When you consider the market served by this Saxilby business, which is headed by Martin (Design Director) and his wife Mel (Managing Director), you might be surprised to discover they haven’t been tempted to de-camp to the south of England.

But having lived a stone’s throw from London before Chiselwood was even a twinkle in Martin’s eye, he has never regretted returning to his home territory and he believes the county is a great base for a business.

“I love Lincolnshire people, the quality of life here and the fact that there’s still some level of privacy. There really is nothing nicer, when you’ve spent hours in London, to catch the Newark train from Kings Cross, and return to the tranquillity of this county,” he said.

The Hollidays’ home and business are a mere 20-minute drive from Newark station and – with the firm’s showrooms and workshops barely ten yards apart – Martin and Mel enjoy the bonus of being able to grab a quick coffee in their own kitchen or one in their showroom.